Comparison of Video Laryngoscopy and Direct Laryngoscopy in a Simulated Environment for Respiratory Therapy Students

Abstract

Background:

Airway management is a critical component of respiratory therapy, with tracheal intubation serving as a cornerstone procedure. Video laryngoscopy (VL) has been shown to enhance glottic visualization compared with direct laryngoscopy (DL), which may influence intubation success rates. This study evaluates the efficacy of VL versus DL in a simulated environment for senior respiratory therapy students.

Methods:

A prospective randomized comparative study was conducted at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, involving 32 fourth-year respiratory therapy students (17 female, 15 male). Participants were randomized into 2 groups VL and DL. All students received prior theoretical and hands-on training with both VL and DL before the evaluation phase. Each participant performed intubation in a simulation using the Laerdal Airway Management Trainer and relevant intubation equipment. Outcomes measured included first-pass intubation success rates and intubation times. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U test.

Results:

Although VL demonstrated a higher first-pass success rate than DL (88% vs 81%), the difference was not statistically significant (P = .63). Similarly, the 3-s increase in median intubation time with VL was not significant (P = .08). Participant feedback indicated high satisfaction with VL, with users reporting improved visualization and ease of use.

Conclusions:

VL demonstrated slightly higher first-pass success rates and greater user satisfaction, supporting its value as an educational tool in respiratory therapy training. However, longer intubation times underscore the importance of structured and repeated VL training. These findings emphasize the potential of incorporating VL into training curricula and support further clinical studies to assess its real-world efficacy.